Hi Ros -- while my birth may not exactly be one you would like to emulate (looongggg!) I did active birthing classes. I found them fantastic and very reinforcing of my own beliefs etc In combo with yoga it was a very good way to focus my mind and body (and hell I needed it!!) The other thing I can not recommend highly enough and made the BIGGEST difference to my labour (which would have been HIDEOUS without) is a doula. It makes all the diff to have continuous care and to have someone who is focused only on you and help help walk you through the valley of darkness .... I can HIGHLY recommend a doula birth junkie to you!